The Story So Far (2 weeks in)

“Wowwww…” That’s a word that’s come out of my mouth often since arriving in Kathmandu the night of Saturday, July 7. From that first ride to my hotel — marveling at the busy roads full of cars, trucks, pedi-cabs, pedestrians, motorbikes, bikes and cattle — my head has swiveled about my neck like an amateur owl’s. There’s so much to look at, hear, and feel! Tiny Hindu shrines, large Hindu temples … Buddha stupas hiding in alleyways and Buddha stupas so large you can’t miss them from miles away … prayer flags swaying in the breeze, prayer wheels turning, prayer bells tinkling, impromptu prayers in my heart to let it all touch me.

Of course, the primary reason I’m here is not to change my own heart, which is happening naturally, but to work to change the fate of others’. Here in Nepal, a minimum of 1,500 youths leave the country every *day* to seek work overseas. Sometimes this work means going to school abroad and starting careers in other countries — but far too many times, it involves hard labor with severe health effects that result in disease and death. Why is this? Youths feel they have no alternative for a prosperous future for themselves and their families. In some cases, they receive additional pressure from parents and peers to find work elsewhere and send money home. Sometimes, that pressure comes from within as they wish to forge their own paths and seek independence, not realizing there is hope at home.

My sub-team’s client, Antarprerana, is on a mission to ensure a happier and more prosperous future for their beautiful country via mentoring and supporting entrepreneurs and start-up businesses here in Nepal. From the beginning, Antarprerana mentors Aazmi A. (Germany), Husnu O. (Turkey) and myself (United States) have been inspired by their sincerity. We first met them virtually just a couple of weeks before arrival during the pre-work sessions, and then in person on Monday, July 9 for the official kick-off event. Since then, we’ve collaborated, conducted meetings and interviews and held lively discussions in the Antarprerana office most days. Earlier this week, we made three site visits with partners and mentees to ensure we had the bigger picture. Each time we talk to someone, we learn new details that underscore the real reasons we are here.

I have a lot more to say, but the lovely Garden of Dreams oasis is calling me and some friends for lunch … as the dreams of a nation keep calling absolutely everywhere we go …